For Families - parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles.....anyone who cares for a child/young person with autism
Autism is a lifelong, developmental difference and receiving a diagnosis for yourself or someone you care for can be a life-changing event.
As a parent/carer you will be the champion for your child as they grow and develop on their own path into adolescence and adulthood. You will be their greatest advocate and Valuing Autism is able to offer a range of services to assist you to give your child the best start in life.
Valuing Autism offers therapeutic interventions, training and workshops sessions that will provide you with key information and a broad understanding of autism. If you would prefer a bespoke and individualised service, tailored to the needs of your child and family, please contact Valuing Autism to discuss your requirements.
Paediatric Autism Communication Therapy (PACT)
PACT is a evidence-based programme that enables parents to target the ‘building blocks’ of language and communication. Specifically designed for children aged 2-10 years with an autism diagnosis, it enables parent(s) as the primary communication partner(s) to support the extension of their child’s skills as part of their everyday routine. It is important to remember that communication is so much more than speech!
Please visit the PACT website for a full introduction - information specifically for families can be found here.
PACT has been rigorously tested around the world, in different cultures, with different societal structures and languages. The scientific findings are robust - maximising communication skills in the first decade of life brings achievements into adolescence and beyond. The strength of our communication is a marker for our future life chances. You can learn more about the clinicians who designed and researched PACT here.
Training Sessions and Workshops
Introduction to Autism – an informal, informative session that seeks to enhance understanding of the key elements of an autism diagnosis. Ideal for parents, grandparents and any adults who provide care to anyone with an autism diagnosis (approximately 2 hours)
Autism Confident – an enhanced course for parents/carers to develop their understanding of the spectrum of autism, psychological theories and developmental profile associated with an autism diagnosis. Awareness of co-occurring conditions (recommended for a half-day session)
Introduction to the SEND Code of Practice (2014) and Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plans – a summary of the legislation surrounding SEND in the education sector, supporting parents to develop partnerships with key professionals through a shared understanding and shared vocabulary around SEND. Introduction to applying for EHC Assessment (approximately 2 hours). Ideal for those who are new to the world of SEND.
What did previous attendees think?
”…..full of information…”
“Informative, especially with regards to understanding legislation”
Autism & Anxiety - a short workshop exploring the anxiety that can arise from the four key differences that make up an Autism diagnosis. Develop your understanding of anxiety as a human experience and the relationship between the physiological and psychological symptoms to better support wellbeing.
What did previous attendees think?
“I have not seen this course offered elsewhere – thank you”
“It gave me the confidence to just look at what my children need and not to worry about what other people say…….”
“I now have an understanding of how the brain functions in terms of anxiety and what my autistic child might be experiencing.”
“I gained a better understanding of how to support children experiencing autism and anxiety, and a view of how the brain works with autism and anxiety.”
“An excellent opportunity to pause and dive deeper into this topic. I loved the ‘stress vessel’ concept.”
“Understanding the fight/flight/fright/freeze responses to anxiety has helped me to better understand my child.”
Want to know more about therapy, training or workshops?
Please contact Valuing Autism to discuss your individual needs.